Renewable Energy Day

3 December 2016

Renewable Energy Day and the development of the Renewable Energy Trail are both initiatives of Regional Development Australia ACT under its SERREE initiative – in collaboration with ARENA, the ACT and NSW Governments, RDA Southern Inland and SERREE Industry Cluster members.

The SERREE (South East Region of Renewable Energy Excellence) initiative facilitates the development of the renewable energy industry in our region and demonstrates new ways to promote regional economic development through - new local jobs, the growth of businesses, and opportunities for farmers. The Trail itself supports both regional tourism, and education – suggesting to students the possibility of a future career in the renewables industry.

Renewable Energy Trail sites display new signage that is immediately recognisable to visitors, and provides information about each of the sites, and its technology. Each sign links to the SERREE website where a wealth of information is provided for those interested in learning more.

A Day on the Renewable Energy Trail tells the story of how our region is using its particular strengths to grow, to strengthen and to contribute. It is for everyone - for families, interest groups, cyclists, for the young and the old, and the positive feedback we’ve received about the Day suggests it was enjoyed and appreciated.

RDA ACT - SERREE’s Renewable Energy Day – a celebration of the excellence of the ACT and surrounding NSW region’s renewable energy sector, was held on Saturday, 3 December 2016, commencing at 10.00 am with an Official Opening at the Mount Majura Solar Farm by ACT Minister Mick Gentleman MLA and Minister Shane Rattenbury MLA.

Following morning tea and guided tours of the Mt Majura Solar Farm, hundreds of participants headed out on SERREE’s Renewable Energy Trail to visit some of Australia’s biggest and best renewable energy infrastructure sites that are located around the region.

These sites had generously opened their gates for REday to showcase their range of technologies and provide guided tours – 150 people were registered on the free bus tours around the sites, while others chose the self-drive Trail experience.

The diversity of renewables technologies was covered with visits to Infigen’s Woodlawn Wind Farm, ICON Water’s Mini Hydro at Googong Dam, and the CIT’s Renewable Energy Skills Training Centre. A lunchtime highlight was a visit to ActewAGL’s Networks Centre in Tuggeranong where a display of electric vehicles, industry stalls – including roof-top solar and battery storage, a free BBQ lunch, live music and kids’ activities offered something for everyone.

Thanks to the renewable energy industry for their on-going support of SERREE and the REtrail, particularly those opening their sites for #REday16. We are already looking forward to #REday17!